
From Sketch to Statement
The development of my portrait photography book began on paper—literally. At this stage, I focused on experimenting with page layouts, exploring how images could interact across spreads and how negative space might enhance the storytelling. Each sketch was an opportunity to test hierarchy, rhythm, and flow, ensuring that every image had room to breathe and every narrative beat landed with impact.
Alongside layout, I considered the tactile experience: paper weight, texture, and finish became crucial elements in how the photographs would be perceived. I wanted the physicality of the book to mirror the boldness of the work within, creating a sensory connection that reinforced the emotional resonance of each portrait.
The sketches also served as a playground for conceptual experimentation—how could bold design amplify intimacy, strength, and presence? I explored contrasts, scale, and sequencing, making deliberate choices that would guide the viewer through a journey of emotion and observation. Every line, margin, and note was a step toward a final product that would not just display photographs, but deliver an experience—one that lingers after the book is closed.


Gathering Inspiration, Defining Direction

The research phase was all about exploration. I collected examples of design and photography that resonated with me—works that sparked excitement, challenged conventions, or evoked strong emotion. Equally important were the pieces I didn’t like; understanding what didn’t work helped clarify my own preferences and informed the decisions I would make later. This process of curation sharpened my eye and defined the visual language I wanted for the book.
To organize my findings, I created a Miro board that became the central hub for inspiration. I grouped visuals by layout, typography, paper treatments, image sequencing, and overall impact, allowing me to see patterns emerge and connections I might otherwise have missed. The board became a dynamic space to experiment, annotate, and compare, making it easier to distill ideas that aligned with my goals while identifying elements I wanted to avoid.
Beyond simply cataloging examples, this research phase was about learning from others’ successes and failures. By examining works I admired, I could tease out the principles that made them compelling—their use of contrast, rhythm, scale, and storytelling. These insights helped me build a foundation for my own creative approach, ensuring that when I moved from inspiration to execution, every decision was intentional and rooted in both study and personal vision.
Shaping the Layout
With research and inspiration in hand, I began translating ideas into tangible layouts. This stage was all about experimenting with composition, image placement, and page flow—deciding how each portrait would interact with the spread and how rhythm and pacing could guide the viewer through the book. I explored grids, margins, and sequencing, testing multiple iterations to balance boldness with clarity, ensuring the design amplified the emotional impact of the photographs.



Bringing the Vision to Life
Finalizing design, refining details, and creating a cohesive, impactful photography book that reflects both intention and emotion.

